Albon also says he’s enjoying his second season with teammate Carlos Sainz, who joined Williams from Ferrari for the 2025 campaign.
Sainz is a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association – a group representing the interest of racers – and is a popular figure.
But Albon says he’s also been taking the lead in other ways off the grid.
“When the drivers get together to play padel, everyone wants Carlos on their team,” he says.
“He’s a step ahead of everyone.”
Albon’s partner is the Chinese professional golfer ‘Lily’ Muni He – so surely he has the advantage over 18 holes?
Not quite.
“Carlos is also really good at golf. It’s really annoying,” he says.
“I’m going to focus on darts and make that my niche.”
For now though, it’s back to the racing and wondering if celebrating on the podium with his 14 cats is how Albon visualises his first top three finish for Williams.
“I don’t think we’re allowed enough paddock passes in F1 to bring them all in,” he says.
